Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/1051031
16 Refer to your vehicle owner's manual or your vehicle dealer for this information. Determine whether rotated tires require tire inflation adjustment, because front and rear position tire pressure may vary according to the vehicle manufacturer's specification due to the actual load on that wheel position. Some vehicles may have tires of different size mounted on the front versus the rear axles, and these different tires have rotation restrictions. Always check the vehicle owner's manual for the proper rotation recommendations. Full-Size Spare Full-size spare tires (not temporary spares) of the same size and construction should be used in a five-tire rotation and should be inspected by a tire professional during routine tire inspection. Always have spare tires inspected before installation. Tires are composed of various types of rubber compounds and other materials having performance properties essential to the proper functioning of the tire. These component properties change over time. Always check the inflation pressure of the full-size spare and look for any indication of cracking or other damage immediately before incorporating the spare into rotation. If you see any damage, or if the tire is underinflated, do not resume driving with that tire unless you have no other option, in which case you should drive only as slowly as is safely possible in the traffic conditions until you can both get the spare tire properly inflated and have it checked by a tire professional to ensure that it is safe to use. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pattern for rotation. If such a recommendation is unavailable, see a qualified tire professional. Replacement of Two Tires All four tires should be replaced at the same time. However, if only two tires are replaced, the new ones should be put on the rear. Deeper tread tires on the rear axle provide better handling, wet grip and evacuate water, thereby helping to avoid oversteer and loss of vehicle stability on wet surfaces. Deeper tread tires on the front axle can improve wet straight line braking and stopping distance. If only two tires are being replaced, Michelin generally recommends they be installed on the rear axle in the absence of a tire service professional's recommendation or consumer's preference to the contrary. CUSTOMIZATION OF TIRES, WHEELS, OR SUSPENSION ON SUVS AND LIGHT TRUCKS Due to their size, weight and higher center of gravity, vehicles such as SUVs and light trucks do not have the same handling characteristics as automobiles. Because of these different characteristics, failure to operate your SUV or truck in a proper and safe manner can increase the likelihood of vehicle rollover. Modifications to your SUV or truck tire size, tire type, wheels or suspension can change your vehicle's handling characteristics and further increase the likelihood of vehicle rollover. Whether your SUV or truck has the original equipment configuration for tires, wheels and suspension or whether any of these items have been modified, always drive safely, avoid sudden, sharp turns or lane changes and obey all traffic laws. Failure to do so may result in loss of vehicle control leading to an accident and serious injury or death.